Dungri Dam Controversy Heats Up! Massive Gathering at Chakeri Mahapanchayat Sends Open Warning to Government
Sawai Madhopur/ Karauli: The Dungri Dam debate has reached a boiling point, with tens of thousands of people gathering in Chakeri village on September 21, 2025, for a historic Mahapanchayat, sending a direct message to the government. The protest, organised by the Dungri Dam Virodh Sangharsh Samiti, aims to prevent the contentious project, which locals fear endangers the region's environmental, social, cultural, and economic infrastructure. The assembly was one of the largest mobilisations in eastern Rajasthan in recent years, with representatives from hundreds of villages, social organisations, and political groups taking part.
The Mahapanchayat began at 11 a.m., with organisers assuring tight logistics and security. Village elders, including Sarpanch Ramchiz Meena and former Sarpanch Rajendra Meena, were instrumental in planning plans for the large turnout. Special committees were formed to handle crowd control, seating, and parking, reflecting the gravity and scope of the movement.
Peaceful Now, But Prepared for Escalation
The Dungri Dam protest committee has stated that the movement will stay nonviolent until the government provides the DPR (Detailed Project Report) and official notifications. However, once these documents are published, the anger is predicted to intensify. Plans include national information campaigns, protests in favour of impacted areas, and harsh penalties for political leaders and organisations who support the project. Each household in protest-affected areas is expected to raise the movement's flag, while political banners will be removed to emphasise the community's togetherness.
The committee also warned that if the government fails to meet their demands, parliamentarians and MPs who oppose the movement may face public criticism, including calls for resignation and targeted sit-ins at their homes. Furthermore, villagers have decided to boycott Diwali shopping this year, coining the term "Black Diwali" to symbolically oppose the project's alleged exploitation of natural resources for corporate profit.
Economic, Social, and Environmental Concerns
Local inhabitants were concerned that the Dungri Dam would create major economic dislocation, ruin agricultural lands, submerge culturally significant places, and alter local ecosystems. Farmers, women, youth, and elders took part in the debates, emphasising how the dam affects livelihoods and traditional customs. The Mahapanchayat also included an in-depth discussion of alternatives such as the Surwal Dam, which villagers believe might provide water needs without triggering widespread displacement.
Ramchiz Meena stated, "This is more than just a protest; it is a demonstration of people's power." If the government ignores our concerns, we will take the campaign to unparalleled heights. Our goal is to protect our houses, lands, and cultural heritage against unplanned and unilateral development.
Strategic Plans for Future Action
The Mahapanchayat proposed an organised strategy to continual activism. Two strategic planning meetings will be held each month, with large warning assemblies planned for neighbouring regions such as Sapotra. The leadership also indicated that the next Panchayati Raj elections will be boycotted to put pressure on the authorities. To achieve maximum involvement and attention, awareness campaigns are conducted using brochures, social media, and media coverage.
The district collector received a formal memorandum summarising the requests, which included the cancellation of the Dungri Dam project and the resolution of Surwal Dam-related difficulties. The Samiti encouraged all people, activists, and media workers to join the campaign, emphasising that collective action is the only way to protect the community's rights.
Widespread Support Across Regions
According to reports from adjacent villages, women, youth, and senior residents are enthusiastically participating in the campaign, demonstrating its widespread societal resonance. Local committees are working to strengthen organisational structures in each community in order to preserve discipline and get the message to the highest levels of government. Observers say the Mahapanchayat in Chakeri is building up to be a watershed moment in Rajasthan's grassroots activity, and the results could affect how future infrastructure projects are planned in the state.
The Dungri Dam protest highlights how small communities can combine to oppose large-scale projects that skip popular approval. As the movement gains traction, the government is under growing pressure to reassess its policies, balance development and environmental protection, and interact meaningfully with affected groups.
📌Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general guidance only and is not intended to serve as legal, political, or policy advice. Readers are encouraged to verify official government notices and local administrative updates regarding the Dungri Dam project.